DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 RS 2026: Road Test review, Pros & Cons, and Real Top Speed
DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 RS 2026: Our unfiltered test. Performance, Issues, and Opinions.
How does the 2026 Ducati Multistrada V4 RS really perform? Discover it in our exclusive test: we analyze real-world performance, top speed, fuel consumption, suspension setup, known issues, and what failed to convince us.
Used Ducati Multistrada V4 RS: valuations, best years, and buying guide
DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 RS 2026: Technical Maintenance Guide and Tester Secrets
DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 RS 2026: Road Test review, Pros & Cons, and Real Top Speed
DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 RS 2026: Our Unfiltered Test
The 2026 Multistrada V4 RS establishes itself as the evolutionary pinnacle of the "superbike with high handlebars" segment. It is not a conventional sport-tourer, but an engineering exercise that transplants the 1103cc Desmosedici Stradale engine into the V4 Pikes Peak chassis. The positioning is clear: a high-performance luxury machine for a niche of users who demand technical exclusivity. It is not a motorcycle for those seeking mere value for money, but for those who demand the integration between the Panigale V4’s engine architecture and the ergonomic versatility of a crossover.
Build Quality
The RS accepts no material compromises. The weight saving of approximately 2kg compared to the Pikes Peak is achieved through the adoption of a titanium rear subframe, Marchesini forged aluminum wheels, and extensive use of carbon fiber (beak, front fender, side deflectors). The finishes are of a superior level, with attention to the mating of plastics and carbon parts that justifies, in part, the price tag of approximately €40,000.
Ergonomics and Riding Comfort
Rider: The position is more compact compared to the V4 S. Rear-set footpegs and lower, more compact handlebars put more weight on the front end, favoring sporty riding but compromising comfort over long distances.
Aerodynamic Protection: The carbon fiber windshield is effective but provides less protection than the standard versions. At high speeds, above 130 km/h, the wind impact on the helmet is noticeable.
Vibrations: Despite the adoption of the Desmosedici Stradale engine, vibrations are kept within tolerance thresholds excellent for fast touring.
Heat: Heat radiated from the rear V4 cylinder is noticeable in the under-seat and thigh areas, characteristic of the Borgo Panigale "V" configuration.
Passenger: This is a compromised configuration. Although the seat is decent, the RS is a vehicle focused on the rider; the passenger is more affected by the rigid suspension tuning.
Suspension and Set-up Guide
The adoption of Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 with "self-levelling" logic is the focal point.
Set-up: The system electronically manages hydraulic damping in real-time. For fast road use, the "Sport" setting offers exceptional support under braking. I recommend accessing the menu to customize the spring preload if the rider's weight exceeds 85kg with gear. The ability to track over uneven asphalt, typical of our secondary roads, is surprisingly high thanks to the generous suspension travel compared to a pure sports bike.
Braking and Traction Control
The Brembo Stylema system with 330mm front discs is a benchmark. The initial bite is aggressive, but modulation remains excellent. The Cornering ABS is fundamental, integrating the "slide by brake" function (controlling the rear slide in entry via the rear brake), as seen on the Panigale. The Traction Control, updated for 2026, works with the 6-axis IMU in an almost imperceptible way: the bike does not "cut" power, but redistributes it.
Engine: Performance and Top Speed
Top Speed: Over 280 km/h (verified under controlled conditions).
Acceleration: Lightning-fast, with a power curve that shows no drop-off until the rev limiter.
Regularity: Despite the racing vocation of the Desmosedici Stradale, the engine is tractable even below 3,000 rpm.
Sixth Gear Roll-on: The short gearing allows for seamless pick-up from low revs, though the engine truly excels above 7,000 rpm.
Heat: By its nature, the Desmosedici Stradale is a compact, high-performance engine that dissipates more thermal energy than the V4 Granturismo. The issue is not the liquid cooling (effectively managed by the enlarged radiator), but the thermal radiation toward the rider. In city stops, heat rising from the rear cylinders is considerable; wearing specific technical gear is highly recommended.
General Performance: The bike features an "aggressive" power curve. Unlike the standard V4, the thrust here is not just linear; it becomes violent past 8,000 rpm, with an intake-exhaust sound that acts as true sensory feedback for the rider. It is at the top of the market, though we would have preferred a configuration exceeding 200 hp, if only to justify the high purchase price.
Engine Set-up Guide
The "Race" riding mode best expresses the bike's potential. I suggest setting throttle response to "High" only on perfect asphalt; on average surfaces, the response is so sharp that it can become fatiguing.
Transmission
The quickshifter (DQS) has been refined. Shifts are fast but require a decisive touch. On downshifts, the dry clutch (which provides the typical metallic sound at idle) offers excellent engine braking control, preventing rear-wheel chatter.
Handling and Stability
The 17-inch front wheel and single-sided swingarm fundamentally change the bike's nature compared to the standard V4.
City: Bulky, though the hydraulic clutch and electronics mitigate traffic use.
B-roads/Mountain Passes: This is its natural habitat. It is reactive and precise in turn-in—a true road-going race bike, difficult to beat on climbs and technical sections with short straights.
Highway: Stable, though one must be mindful of crosswinds.
Two-up riding: The RS is a conceptual "single-seater." While homologated for two, the suspension tuning and higher footpeg position penalize the passenger. Stability remains excellent thanks to the Öhlins electronic tuning, but passenger comfort is not comparable to a V4 S.
Off-road: Not applicable. Despite the ground clearance, this is not a bike conceived for any off-road use, not even a simple dirt track.
Fuel Consumption
In intense sporty use, the RS is thirsty. Expect an average of 12 to 14 km/l. On the highway at a constant speed, one can achieve 16 km/l.
Conclusions: Pros and Cons
Pros: Desmosedici Stradale engine (unrivaled), refined chassis, benchmark electronics.
Cons: Prohibitive price, residual heat, limited aerodynamic protection.
Advice and Alternatives
Maintenance is expensive. If your use is strictly touring, the V4 S remains more balanced. As a direct rival, the BMW M1000XR offers equally sophisticated chassis tech but with superior frame rigidity; the Ducati wins on engine refinement.
Accessories and Upgrades
Recommended Upgrades: The aftermarket market offers little for the engine due to the complex electronics (locked ECU). It is possible to install anti-abrasion plastic frame sliders and a set of specific side cases that do not alter the dynamic balance.
Accessories: The original luggage kit is the only sensible choice: it was designed in the wind tunnel to avoid creating significant aerodynamic turbulence above 200 km/h.
Scheduled Maintenance Guide
The Desmosedici Stradale requires valve clearance checks every 30,000 km (the famous "Desmo" interval). Do not neglect the specific oil change (Shell Advance Ducati 15W-50) and cleaning the air filter, which is delicate due to the airbox configuration.
FAQ
Is the price difference vs. the Pikes Peak justified? The difference is justified if you are looking specifically for the character of the Desmosedici Stradale engine.
Is it suitable for daily use? It is possible, but the heat and rigid tuning do not make it ideal.
Known Issues
As of the launch (June 2026), the only reported issues concern the sensitivity of the onboard electronic sensors (IMU) to high-frequency vibrations from non-original exhaust systems, which can trigger errors in the rider assistance systems. It is highly recommended not to alter the stock Akrapovič exhaust system.
Technical Data Summary
Model 2026 data
Engine: V4 Desmosedici Stradale, 1103cc
Max Power: 178 hp (131 kW) @ 12,250 rpm
Max Torque: 118 Nm @ 9,500 rpm
Dry Weight: 225 kg (curb weight)
Suspension: Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 (48mm front / rear mono)
Base Price: approx. €40,500, depending on market)
Top Speed: > 280 km/h
Average Test Consumption: 13.5 km/l
CrazyWheels.it Note:
The Multistrada V4 RS should not be considered an "improved" Multistrada, but rather a Streetfighter V4 with a crossover chassis. If your primary use is long-range touring, the V4 S or Pikes Peak offer a torque curve better suited to relaxed riding. The RS is for the rider who "pushes" the physical limits of the touring category toward the hypersport realm.
What didn't convince us:
The excessive heat coming from the rear cylinder at traffic lights and the cost of carbon fiber components, which are exposed and expensive to replace in the event of minor static drops. The final cost of the bike is only justifiable for those seeking this specific model.
Technical Note: The data above is based on comparative tests conducted by the Crazywheels editorial staff in June 2026.